What is an Investment Lighthouse
Investment Lighthouses (ILs) integral to the Connect2Scale project, are transformative platforms fostering innovation and collaboration, connecting investors with curated startups, providing educational resources, ensuring regulatory compliance, and sustaining long-term success in the European financing ecosystem.
Who is it for?
Investment Lighthouses are designed for investors seeking high-quality opportunities and startups looking for funding and support. They also benefit BANs aiming to expand their networks and enhance investment activities.
What are Investment Lighthouses for?
- Facilitate access to curated dealflow and opportunities.
- Engage in events and forums to build relationships and share knowledge.
- Connect with a diverse and robust network of stakeholders.
- Stay informed about the regulatory landscape and gain access valuable educational resources.
Explore your Country of Interest
Click on the interactive map to dive into the heart of each Investment Lighthouse, where opportunities and knowledge converge.
Finland’s angel investment ecosystem is one of the most vibrant in Europe, led by the Finnish Business Angels Network (FiBAN), which, with over 600 members, is the largest and most active network of its kind on the continent. Since 2010, FiBAN members have invested more than €450 million in over 1,900 startups, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering innovation. In 2023, the software and healthcare sectors attracted significant interest, with FiBAN members investing €26 million in various startups. Finland’s startup landscape is also known for producing globally recognized unicorns such as Rovio, Relex, Supercell, and Oura. As the ecosystem evolves, emerging sectors like defense, security, data analytics, wellness, entertainment, deep tech, and gaming are gaining traction, with a notable trend towards AI-driven startups, which accounted for about a third of new companies in 2024.
Estonia’s investment ecosystem is dynamic and rapidly growing, driven by an active community of several hundred angel investors and venture capitalists, including the influential Estonian Business Angels Network (EstBAN) with 300 members. The country attracts significant attention from a dozen prominent venture capital funds focused on early-stage tech startups. Estonia’s thriving startup scene, particularly in fintech, cybersecurity, and digital health, has produced global successes like Bolt, Wise, and Pipedrive, alongside rising stars such as Veriff and Skeleton Technologies. The nation’s digital-first approach, supported by forward-thinking government policies like the e-Residency program, fosters a collaborative and innovative environment. With a 30% annual increase in new startups, particularly in fintech, green tech, and digital health, Estonia’s robust digital infrastructure and investor-friendly environment present abundant opportunities for engaging with cutting-edge technologies and high-potential ventures.
Latvia’s investment ecosystem is steadily growing, fueled by a dedicated network of angel investors and venture capital funds. The Latvian Business Angel Network (LatBAN) is a key player in connecting investors with promising startups, fostering innovation across the country. Latvia’s startup scene is particularly strong in sectors like fintech, deep tech, and smart city solutions, with successful companies such as Printify, Sonarworks, and Mintos gaining international recognition. The Latvian government actively supports entrepreneurship through favorable policies and initiatives, creating an environment conducive to startup growth. With a rise in new ventures and a focus on emerging fields like AI, blockchain, and sustainable technologies, Latvia presents a wealth of opportunities for investors seeking to engage with innovative and high-potential startups.
Lithuania’s investment ecosystem is rapidly gaining momentum, driven by a growing network of angel investors and venture capital funds. The Lithuanian Business Angels Network (LitBAN) plays a crucial role in connecting investors with innovative startups, contributing to the country’s vibrant entrepreneurial scene. Lithuania’s startup landscape is particularly strong in fintech, cybersecurity, and life sciences, with success stories like Vinted, Trafi, and Tesonet achieving significant international acclaim. The government’s commitment to fostering innovation, through supportive policies and a favorable business environment, has made Lithuania an attractive destination for both local and international investors. With a surge in new startups and a focus on cutting-edge sectors such as AI, blockchain, and green tech, Lithuania offers abundant opportunities for those looking to invest in high-growth ventures.
Slovenia’s investment ecosystem is emerging as a dynamic player in the European startup landscape, supported by an active network of angel investors and venture capital funds. A key contributor is the Business Angels of Slovenia (BAS), which plays a vital role in connecting investors with high-potential startups. The country’s tech-focused startups are making strides, particularly in sectors like fintech, biotechnology, and clean energy. Slovenia has produced notable success stories, including high-growth companies like Outfit7, Celtra, and Bitstamp, which have achieved international recognition. The Slovenian government’s support for innovation, through initiatives and policies aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, has created a nurturing environment for startups. With increasing interest from investors and a growing number of new ventures, Slovenia offers promising opportunities in areas such as AI, sustainable technologies, and digital innovation.
Collaboration Opportunities